The Coordinating Unit of the Raptors MOU, in collaboration with BirdLife International, Vulture Conservation Foundation and the IUCN Vulture Specialist Group, has today launched a month-long Public Consultation Exercise on the 2nd draft of a Multi-species Action Plan to Conserve African-Eurasian Vultures (Vulture MsAP).The consultation period runs until 16 April 2017.

Abu Dhabi, 13 March 2017- The CMS Secretariat is pleased to welcome the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia the 42^nd Signatory to the Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation

Lebanon is a country of extraordinary importance for migratory birds since it lies at the heart of the Rift Valley-Red Sea Flyway on the eastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea. Every year thousands of birds migrate across Lebanon during the autumn season towards their wintering grounds in Africa and return in the spring time to their breeding areas in Eurasia. These birds are mainly waterbirds, raptors and songbirds. Among them there are several globally threatened species such as the Dalmatian Pelican, Greater Spotted Eagle, Imperial Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, Egyptian Vulture, Pallid Harrier and Lesser Kestrel. Great numbers of White Storks and Lesser-spotted Eagles also overfly Lebanon during their migration.

Every 3 March World Wildlife Day is celebrated around the globe to commemorate the day on which CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) was signed. World Wildlife Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of conserving the planet’s animals. This will be the fourth year that this day is celebrated and it is hoped that with the support of international community it will continue to grow. It is vitally important to protect wildlife from the dire consequences of climate change, pollution, habitat loss, illegal trade, and poaching.